Repairs and improvements at Twyford Library

After 35 years serving the people of Twyford, the Council Library based in Polehampton Close is in need of some significant maintenance to ensure it meets the standards expected of a public building.

Following the completion of a condition survey on the library building, the Council’s Executive has approved funding which will allow for necessary repairs to be undertaken. This includes repairing the roof, which currently leaks in a number of places; replacing the windows; and some internal redecoration. Given the nature of the works, it will not be possible to keep the library open whilst they are carried out. It is expected that the library will be closed from mid-November for approximately four weeks.

During the closure period, people will still be able to access online library services such as the popular e-book and e-audio services. For those people who would still like to visit a library, they can use any of the other libraries within the Borough, with Wargrave or Winnersh libraries being the closest alternatives. Details of these are available on the Council’s website at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/ .

Wokingham Borough Council understands that the library in Twyford remains popular and well-used. Whilst these works are planned the Council is taking the opportunity to review library opening hours in the area and ensure the library is open when there is most demand, and to give best availability of library services within the north of the Borough. Further details of any changes, together with more precise dates for when the work will be undertaken will be published shortly.

Cllr Norman Jorgensen, executive member for environment, said: “I’m pleased that the Council is able to continue its programme of investment in our libraries. The current site in Twyford is now showing significant signs of wear and we need to undertake these repairs so that we can ensure that we are able to continue to deliver the services we know our resident value. I’m also pleased that the

“Library Service is constantly monitoring the use of each library and looking for opportunities to make the service available when most people want it to be.

“I would also like to stress that these essential repairs will not interfere with the ongoing discussions with local groups in Twyford about possible new sites for the library sometime in the future.”